Title: French: 2pc. Antique 19th Century Silver Plate Table Centerpiece, Excellent Condition, Rocaille Model, 1890sDescription:Direct from Paris, a stunning 19th century silver plated table centerpiece in excellent condition, circa 1890s. French silver plating is a testament to the country's rich tradition of craftsmanship, artistry, and innovation in the decorative arts. Renowned for its exceptional quality, intricate designs, and historical significance, French silver plate has been celebrated for centuries. From the opulent tableware that graced the tables of royalty to the exquisite antique table centerpieces and jardinières adorned with the rocaille pattern, French silver plating represents a pinnacle of artistic achievement. The art of silver plating in France dates back to the 18th century, a period marked by the rise of the Rococo style and the flourishing of decorative arts. Silver plating, or *argenture*, involves coating a base metal, typically copper or brass, with a thin layer of silver. This technique allowed for the creation of luxurious objects that mimicked the appearance of solid silver but were more affordable and accessible. The development of French silver plating was closely tied to the advancements in metallurgy and chemistry during the Enlightenment. French artisans, inspired by the demand for elegant and functional objects, perfected the process of electroplating in the 19th century. This innovation revolutionized the industry, enabling the mass production of high-quality silver-plated items while maintaining the meticulous craftsmanship that defined French artistry. French silver plating is distinguished by its unparalleled quality and attention to detail. The process begins with the careful selection of base metals, which are meticulously shaped and polished to create a flawless foundation. The silver plating is then applied using advanced techniques, ensuring an even and durable coating that enhances the object's beauty and longevity. One of the hallmarks of French silver plating is the intricate engraving and chasing that adorn many pieces. Artisans employ a variety of tools and techniques to create elaborate patterns, motifs, and scenes that reflect the prevailing artistic styles of the time. The rocaille pattern, characterized by its sinuous curves, shell-like forms, and naturalistic elements, is particularly emblematic of French Rococo design and is often found on antique table centerpieces and jardinières. The craftsmanship of French silver plating extends beyond the decorative elements to the functional aspects of the objects. Tableware, for example, is designed with both aesthetics and utility in mind, ensuring that each piece is not only visually stunning but also practical for everyday use. This combination of beauty and functionality is a defining feature of French silver plate and has contributed to its enduring popularity. French silver plating has received numerous awards and accolades over the years, recognizing its excellence in design and craftsmanship. The Expositions Universelles, or World's Fairs, held in Paris during the 19th and early 20th centuries, were particularly important platforms for showcasing French silver plate. These international exhibitions brought together the finest artisans and manufacturers from around the world, and French silver plate consistently stood out for its innovation and artistry. At the 1855 Exposition Universelle in Paris, French silver plate manufacturers such as Christofle and Odiot were awarded prestigious medals for their exceptional work. Christofle, in particular, became synonymous with high-quality silver plating and was celebrated for its innovative techniques and elegant designs. The company's success at the Exposition Universelle helped to establish its reputation as a leader in the field and cemented France's status as a center of excellence for silver plating. In addition to international recognition, French silver plate has been honored with numerous national awards and distinctions. The French government has long supported the decorative arts, and silver plating has been a beneficiary of this patronage. The Legion of Honour, France's highest order of merit, has been awarded to several prominent silver plate artisans and manufacturers in recognition of their contributions to the country's cultural heritage. The patronage of the French royal family and aristocracy played a crucial role in the development and promotion of French silver plating. The opulent tastes of the monarchy and nobility created a demand for luxurious and finely crafted objects, and silver plate was a favored medium for meeting this demand. During the reign of Louis XV, the Rococo style reached its zenith, and silver plate became an integral part of the royal court's decorative scheme. The king's mistress, Madame de Pompadour, was a notable patron of the arts and played a key role in promoting the rocaille pattern, which became a defining feature of French silver plate during this period. The royal court's embrace of silver plate helped to elevate its status and establish it as a symbol of wealth and refinement. The French Revolution brought about significant changes in the patronage of the arts, but the tradition of royal support for silver plating continued under Napoleon Bonaparte. The Emperor's desire to revive the grandeur of the French court led to a renewed interest in silver plate, and manufacturers such as Christofle and Odiot were commissioned to create elaborate tableware and decorative objects for the imperial household. Napoleon's patronage helped to ensure the continued prominence of French silver plate and reinforced its association with luxury and prestige. Antique table centerpieces and jardinières are among the most celebrated examples of French silver plate. These decorative objects were designed to serve as focal points on dining tables or in grand interiors, and their elaborate designs and intricate craftsmanship reflect the opulence and sophistication of the French decorative arts. Table centerpieces, or *surtouts de table*, were a staple of French aristocratic dining during the 18th and 19th centuries. These multi-tiered arrangements typically featured a central motif, such as a figurine or a floral design, surrounded by smaller elements, such as candelabra or mirrored platforms. The rocaille pattern was a popular choice for table centerpieces, and its flowing lines and organic forms added a sense of movement and dynamism to the composition. Jardinières, or ornamental planters, were another popular form of French silver plate. These objects were designed to hold flowers or plants and were often placed on tables or in prominent locations within a room. The rocaille pattern was frequently used to decorate jardinières, with its shell-like forms and naturalistic motifs complementing the organic nature of the plants they contained. The combination of silver plate and greenery created a striking visual contrast and added a touch of elegance to any interior. The rocaille pattern is one of the most iconic and enduring designs in French silver plate. Originating in the Rococo period, the rocaille pattern is characterized by its sinuous curves, asymmetrical forms, and naturalistic motifs, such as shells, flowers, and foliage. The pattern reflects the Rococo style's emphasis on lightness, movement, and the beauty of nature, and it has become synonymous with French elegance and sophistication. The rocaille pattern was particularly well-suited to silver plate, as its intricate details and flowing lines could be beautifully rendered in the medium. Artisans used a variety of techniques, including engraving, chasing, and repoussé, to create the delicate and dynamic designs that define the rocaille pattern. The result was a series of objects that were not only visually stunning but also tactile and engaging, inviting the viewer to explore their intricate details. The popularity of the rocaille pattern extended beyond silver plate to other decorative arts, including furniture, ceramics, and textiles. Its influence can be seen in the work of some of the most renowned French artisans and designers of the 18th and 19th centuries, and it remains a source of inspiration for contemporary artists and craftsmen. French silver plating, as evidenced by this amazing table centerpiece, is a shining example of the country's rich artistic heritage and its commitment to excellence in craftsmanship. From the opulent tableware that graced the tables of royalty to the exquisite antique table centerpieces and jardinières adorned with the rocaille pattern, French silver plate represents a pinnacle of artistic achievement. The quality and craftsmanship of French silver plate have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, and its association with royal patronage has cemented its status as a symbol of luxury and refinement. The enduring appeal of French silver plate lies in its ability to combine beauty and functionality, creating objects that are not only visually stunning but also practical and enduring. The rocaille pattern, with its intricate details and flowing lines, is a testament to the skill and creativity of French artisans and remains a beloved design to this day. French silver plate is not just a reflection of the past; it is a living testament to the enduring power of beauty, creativity, and excellence. This is truly a magnificent set consisting of a jardinière with silverplate interior and a mirror base in the opulent Rocco pattern. The jardiniere stands approximately 16.00cm. high at its highest point, is roughly 42.00cm. in length to the outside of the handles, 26.50cm. across at its widest point and weights a massive 4,692 grams. It is in excellent condition with no wearing of the silverplate, not even on the underside. The stunning mirrored table centerpiece base is approximately 62.00cm. in length, 42.00cm. across at its widest point and weight an astounding 5,240 grams. It too is in excellent condition with no wearing of the silver plate and the original mirror is also in excellent condition with minimal wear. You can’t go wrong buying quality.Maker/Designer: French, 19th CenturyOrigin:FranceDate/Period:19th CenturySilver Purity:Silver PlateSize:2pcs.Hallmarks:Silver Plate
Reserve: $2,729.00
Shipping:Domestic: Free shipping to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.International: Foreign shipping rates are determined by destination. International shipping may be subject to VAT. Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.Location: This item ships from Paris, France
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